By Jazeerah Mirembe
Uganda’s Muslim community has put aside its long standing differences and paid glowing tribute to the late Gen. Moses Ali, remembering him as a devout Muslim, unifier, statesman and champion of education .During funeral prayers (Salatul Janazah) held at the Gaddafi National Mosque in Old Kampala on Sunday, the Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje, described Gen. Ali as a national leader whose unwavering Islamic faith shaped his character and public service.
“He was not only a national leader but also a committed and dedicated Muslim believer whose devotion to Islam guided his actions and strengthened his character,” Sheikh Mubajje said. The Mufti said Gen. Ali lived a life of resilience, service and faith, describing him as a reconciler who promoted unity and projected a positive image of Muslims through his distinguished service in government.
Hundreds of mourners attended the funeral prayers, including senior government officials, diplomats, Muslim leaders and members of the late general’s family. The prayers were led by Sheikh Mubajje. The government delegation was headed by Third Deputy Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga, included Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, State Minister for Defence in charge of Veteran Affairs Hon. Huda Oleru, KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, Uganda’s ambassadors to Sudan, Türkiye and Iran, Soecial Envoy of the Mufti to South Sudan, South Sudan Presidential Advisor on Muslim affairs, former MP Capt. Mike Mukula and other senior officials.
The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) was represented by Second Deputy Mufti His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Hafiz Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, Shura Council Chairperson Sheikh Abdu Obeid Kamulegeya, Shura Council member Sheikh Hussein Rajab Kakooza, members of the General Assembly, Regional Assistants to the Mufti, District Kadhis, and other prominent Muslim figures. The family of the late Gen. Ali was led by State Minister for Works, Hon. Siraje Moses Ali.
Other speakers also celebrated Gen. Ali’s contribution to the country and the Muslim community. Islamic University in Uganda Rector Prof. Dr. Ismail Ssimbwa Gyagenda credited him with playing a pivotal role in the establishment of the university and praised his support for higher education and Islamic banking legislation. He also noted that IUIU had honoured him with an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree.
Flight Capt. Mike Mukula and former Health Minister, described Gen. Ali as a freedom fighter, accomplished military officer and a respected pillar of the Nubian community. In a written tribute, UMSC Secretary General Hadji Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi said Muslims would remember Gen. Ali as a devout believer who proudly professed his faith while serving Uganda at the highest levels of leadership. He also hailed him as one of the founders and steadfast supporters of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council.
Speaking on behalf of the government, Rt. Hon. Rukia Isanga Nakadama remembered Gen. Ali as a disciplined and visionary leader whose commitment to education inspired many. “You could imagine he went back to study at an advanced age and eventually earned a law degree. Young people should emulate him,” she said. Nakadama said the late general promoted education, fostered national unity and built international relationships that continue to benefit Uganda. On behalf of the family, Ismail Moses Ali described the deceased as a loving father who worked tirelessly to educate his children and care for his family. The funeral prayers were led by Sheikh Abdu Obeid Kamulegeya thereafter Sheikh Hussein Rajab Kakooza offered the final supplications, bringing the solemn ceremony to a close.
At Kibuli Mosque , the titular head of the Muslim community Prince Kassim Nakibinge said Gen Ali was exceptional and worked had for the unity of Muslims .” He has been saying that he shakes hands with opposition politicians while here , when they are out there it is a different story ,we have lost a man who was full of humour nad love for every one “he said